Cinnamon Sugar Snowballs

Few desserts capture the magic of the holiday season quite like Cinnamon Sugar Snowballs. These bite-sized confections are a delightful combination of warm, comforting cinnamon and the sweet crunch of sugar. They’re easy to make, fun to eat, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday party or simply looking for a cozy afternoon treat, Cinnamon Sugar Snowballs offer a versatile and irresistible option.

Ingredients

The key to perfect Cinnamon Sugar Snowballs lies in precise measurements and quality ingredients. For best results, use fresh ingredients and measure carefully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Dough

• 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened: Butter is the foundation of these cookies, lending a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar, sifted: Powdered sugar adds sweetness while keeping the cookies soft and delicate. Sifting ensures a smooth texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This adds warmth and depth to the flavor. Opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
• 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour, sifted: Flour gives structure to the dough. Sifting prevents lumps and ensures even mixing.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a touch of salt enhances the sweetness and balances the overall flavor.

For the Coating

• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar: Granulated sugar gives the coating a pleasant crunch.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The warm, spicy aroma of cinnamon is the defining flavor of these snowballs.

This combination of ingredients yields approximately 24 cookies, making it perfect for sharing or gifting.

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step directions to make flawless Cinnamon Sugar Snowballs. Each step ensures your cookies turn out tender, flavorful, and beautifully coated.

1. Prepare Your Workspace

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Having your workspace organized before you begin will make the process smoother.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment to beat the softened butter and powdered sugar. Mix on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step incorporates air into the dough, giving the snowballs their delicate texture.

3. Incorporate the Vanilla

Add the vanilla extract and continue mixing on low speed until fully combined. The vanilla enhances the sweetness and adds a subtle aroma that complements the cinnamon coating.

4. Add the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed. Once the dough begins to come together, use a spatula or your hands to finish mixing. Stop as soon as the dough is evenly combined—overmixing can result in dense cookies.

5. Shape the Dough

Scoop the dough into small portions using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop. Roll each portion into a smooth ball between your palms. Uniform shapes ensure even baking. Place the balls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.

6. Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. Check them frequently to avoid overbaking. The bottoms should be lightly golden, while the tops remain pale.

7. Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

While the cookies bake, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Stir until evenly mixed.

8. Coat the Snowballs

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes after baking. While they’re still warm but cool enough to handle, roll each cookie in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Warm cookies absorb the coating better, ensuring a flavorful crust.

9. Cool Completely

Place the coated cookies on a wire rack to cool completely. As they cool, the coating will adhere firmly, creating a satisfying texture and appearance

Helpful Tips

1. Accurate Measurements

Baking is a precise science. Use measuring cups for dry ingredients and a kitchen scale for the most accurate results, especially for flour and butter.

2. Soften Butter Correctly

Softened butter is key to achieving the right texture. If the butter is too cold, it won’t cream properly; if it’s too soft, the dough may spread too much. Let it sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes, or microwave in 5-second intervals until just soft.

3. Avoid Overmixing

Overworking the dough can develop gluten, leading to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are incorporated.

4. Use Fresh Cinnamon

For the best flavor, use freshly ground cinnamon or ensure your ground cinnamon hasn’t been sitting in your pantry for too long.

5. Test Your Oven Temperature

Ovens can vary in temperature, so consider using an oven thermometer to ensure you’re baking at the correct temperature.

Conservation and Storage

1. Short-Term Storage

Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to one week. Adding a sheet of parchment paper between layers prevents sticking.

2. Long-Term Storage

To freeze the cookies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm. Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. Properly stored, they’ll retain their flavor and texture for up to three months.

3. Reheating for Freshness

If frozen, let the cookies thaw at room temperature. For a freshly baked taste, warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes.

Variations

Cinnamon Sugar Snowballs are versatile and easy to adapt to different flavors and dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:

1. Nutty Snowballs

Enhance the texture and flavor by adding 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the dough. The nuts add a delightful crunch and pair well with the cinnamon.

2. Chocolate Snowballs

Incorporate 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips into the dough for a touch of decadence. Alternatively, drizzle cooled snowballs with melted dark or white chocolate for a visually appealing finish.

3. Citrus Twist

Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the dough for a fresh, zesty note that complements the cinnamon coating.

4. Gluten-Free Option

Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum to maintain the cookies’ structure.

5. Spice It Up

Mix in a pinch of ground cloves, nutmeg, or cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar coating for a more complex flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon Sugar Snowballs are perfect for various occasions, from casual get-togethers to elegant holiday spreads. Here are some serving ideas:

1. Pair with Beverages

Serve these cookies with hot drinks like spiced chai, espresso, or mulled cider for a cozy pairing. The warmth of the cinnamon complements aromatic beverages beautifully.

2. Festive Dessert Platter

Arrange the snowballs on a platter alongside an assortment of cookies, chocolates, and candied fruits. Their delicate appearance makes them a standout addition to any spread.

3. Holiday Gift Idea

Pack the snowballs in decorative tins or mason jars lined with parchment paper. Tie with festive ribbons and include a handwritten recipe card for a personal touch.

4. Ice Cream Topping

Crumble the cookies over vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert.

5. Cookie Exchange Star

Bring these to a cookie exchange and watch them disappear! Their unique coating and flavor make them a hit.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dough up to two days in advance and refrigerate it. Allow the dough to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

2. Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe to avoid an overly salty flavor.

3. Why are my cookies spreading too much?

This could be due to overly soft butter or insufficient chilling time. If the dough feels too warm, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes before baking.

4. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While you can substitute margarine, the flavor and texture won’t be as rich or tender as when using butter.

5. Can I skip the cinnamon-sugar coating?

The coating is essential to the signature flavor, but you can experiment with alternatives like powdered sugar, cocoa powder, or a mix of spices.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, the recipe can be easily doubled to make a larger batch. Be sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly when scaling up and bake the cookies in separate batches to ensure even baking.

7. My coating isn’t sticking well. What should I do?

The cookies should be warm, but not too hot, when rolled in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. If the coating isn’t adhering, you can lightly brush the cookies with a bit of melted butter before rolling them in the mixture.

8. Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for the coating?

Yes, brown sugar can be used for a deeper, caramel-like flavor. Keep in mind, however, that the texture of the coating will be slightly softer.

9. Can I bake these cookies at a lower temperature?

Baking at a lower temperature may result in less even baking and a different texture. It’s best to stick to the recommended 350°F (175°C) for optimal results.

10. Do these cookies travel well?

Yes, Cinnamon Sugar Snowballs are sturdy and travel well, making them an excellent choice for holiday gifts or potlucks. Place them in a tightly sealed container with layers separated by parchment paper to prevent breakage.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar Snowballs are a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Their delicate, buttery texture and spiced sugary coating make them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore one of the suggested variations, these snowballs are guaranteed to bring joy to anyone who takes a bite.

From cozy winter afternoons to festive holiday gatherings, these delightful treats prove that sometimes, the simplest recipes leave the most lasting impressions. So grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy crafting these flavorful snowballs—because every occasion deserves a little sweetness.

Cinnamon Sugar Snowballs

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

• Author: Kiera
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 24-30 snowballs 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Snowballs:

• 1 cup (2 sticks / 226 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (120 g) finely chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together. If using nuts, fold them into the dough at this stage.

Step 3: Shape the Snowballs

1. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls using your hands.
2. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1-2 inches apart.

Step 4: Bake the Snowballs

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. The tops should remain pale.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

1. While the snowballs are baking, mix the 1/2 cup of sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

Step 6: Coat the Snowballs

1. As soon as the snowballs come out of the oven, let them cool for 1-2 minutes until they are firm enough to handle but still warm.
2. Roll each snowball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
3. Place the coated snowballs on a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

• Be careful not to overbake the snowballs, as they can become dry. They should be soft and crumbly, not crispy.
• If the dough is too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before shaping.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 snowball
• Calories: 120 kcal
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 25 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 11 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg